NATSICC Assembly 2018

NATSICC Assembly 2018 Celebrating Faith, Spirituality and Culture in Perth 1 5 October 2018

About NATSICC Vision Statement welcome The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) is the peak Advisory Body to the Australian Catholic Bishops on issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics. The Council was founded in 1992 and the Secretariat is based in Adelaide. Each State and Territory nominates a representative to the Council. NATSICC advises the Bishops Commission for Relations with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics. NATSICC is a not for profit organisation that is funded by the Catholic Church and Caritas Australia s First Australians Program. The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council promotes and celebrates the cultural identity of our peoples across the nation. By living and expressing in all its endeavours the spirituality of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic peoples. Through this expression and recognition of our cultural identity we will find our rightful place within the Catholic Church in Australia. Acknowledgment to Traditional Owners: The Assembly is being held on the lands of the Noongar people. We acknowledge their continued relationship with the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. It is my pleasure to invite you to the 2018 NATSICC Assembly. I respectfully acknowledge the Noongar people, who are the traditional owners of the Perth area. Of all the activities that NATSICC and the Catholic Church undertakes, the Assembly is one of the most unique events because it is designed to enrich, inspire and give voice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics. We are the youngest and fastest growing demographic in the Church in Australia and the three pillars of our lives are family, spirituality and culture. STRONG FAITH. STRONG YOUTH. STRONG FUTURE. is the theme of the Assembly and provides an insight into the focus of the event. We want the young people, who are our present and the future, to be strong leaders and proud of their culture and of their faith. We have organised a very impressive list of keynote speakers Senator Pat Dodson, Fr Frank Brennan SJ AO, Dr Richard Walley OAM and Tom Powell but it was also important to give a voice to those that are working in their communities and not often in the spotlight. You may not know their names, but you will discover the challenges they face and the learnings they have collected by attending their workshops. The concurrent workshops give you the opportunity to tailor your Assembly experience to suit your interests. It is not all presentations and workshops - there will be plenty of time for yarning and sharing stories because that s where some of our deepest knowledge is gained. We are working closely with the 2020 Plenary Planning Committee to ensure that the outcomes from our yarning circles and presentations will form part of the 2020 Consultation, and the future of our Church. Looking forward to seeing you at the NATSICC Assembly in Perth! John Lochowiak NATSICC Chairperson Official Assembly Artwork 2018 The painting is the reflection of Strong Faith. Strong Youth. Strong Future. as we celebrate the life of Christ and the stories of old. Through the painting we are paying respect to our ancestral creators strength and in our belief in Christ. The Cross in the centre represents God, who has walked with the Aboriginal people from the beginning of our dreamtime; and this represents the presence of God s love that surrounds us. The footprints of every person essentially exist through our Dreaming. We are the special custodian of this part of our country and have been taught the stories and song lines of our land. Ochre Sponsor Sponsors Supported by Assembly Partners The NATSICC Logo depicts a willy willy, the wind force in the centre a symbol of God s Spirit. The round concentric circles at the top symbolise God and Life, the base depicts men and women receiving the Holy Spirit. The logo was designed by Mrs Olive Boddington, from Western Australia. The handprints represent the identity of who we once were. The circles are the different tribes linked together. This was a traditional Aboriginal way of life - hunting and gathering. There were small groups of people moving around the land depending on the season and availability of resources, all being created by Our Great Creator; God. Artwork by Deborah Nannup (shown on left hand page)

Keynote speakers Concurrent Workshops Senator Patrick Dodson Senator Patrick Dodson is a Yawuru man from Broome in Western Australia. He has dedicated his life s work to being an advocate for constructive relationships between Indigenous and non-indigenous peoples based on mutual respect, understanding and dialogue. He is a recipient of the Sydney Peace Prize. Patrick has extensive experience in Aboriginal Affairs, previously as Director of the Central and Kimberley Land Councils and as a Commissioner in the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. He also served as inaugural Chair of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation and as Co-Chair of the Expert Panel for Constitutional Recognition of Indigenous Australians. Prior to his endorsement by the Australian Labor Party as a Western Australian Senator in March 2016, Patrick was a member of the ANU Council, Adjunct Professor at the University of Notre Dame (Broome) and Co-Chair of the National Referendum Council. Fr Frank Brennan SJ AO Jesuit priest Fr Frank Brennan is chief executive officer of Catholic Social Services Australia the Catholic Church s peak body for social services in Australia. Fr Frank has been a long-time advocate for human rights and social justice in Australia. His contact and involvement with people who are poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged began early in his priestly ministry when he worked in the inner Sydney parish of Redfern with priest activist Father Ted Kennedy. In every role he has had since, he has been amplifying the voice of conscience, especially the voice of those who are marginalised. Frank is also an adjunct professor at the Australian Catholic University and at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture. He is also the superior of the Jesuit community at Xavier House in Canberra. Dr. Richard Walley OAM Richard is one of Australia s leading Aboriginal performers and writers. His life has been incredibly diverse and full of achievements. Over the past ten years, Richard has been working with Australian, European and American companies as a cultural consultant and presenter. He participates in the Natural Stewardship Resource Meetings in France and lectures on Aboriginal Culture at the University of Western Australia. Continual participation in Nyoongar cultural and contemporary events including Survival Day Concert and the Wardanji Festival. Richard performs Welcome to Country ceremonies regularly for the community, business and government sectors. Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Perth This workshop will explore how the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry of Perth have been working with the wider Catholic community in their ministry with Aboriginal people so that the Aboriginal communities contributions are joyfully received throughout the Archdiocese! Karan Taylor and Beth Riolo An Aboriginal Catholic Woman s Sacramental Journey expressed through Art This workshop will present The Aboriginal Art Resource Sacraments Series which highlights some of the connections that can be made with Aboriginal spirituality, celebration and ritual with those used in the sacramental life and religious rituals of the Catholic Church. Sr Alma Cabassi Seasons of Healing Seasons for Healing is a small group program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults dealing with issues of loss and grief. Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation The Story of Baabayn The story of the Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation showing how a small group of dedicated women can run an organisation that has faith in God s love and belief in God s continual goodness. Dr Anne Poelina and Ms Anne Jennings We are a vital part of the change we have been waiting for The workshop will discuss how discussions and actions as the spiritual perspective is now integral to the environment debate, and the poor are disproportionately affected by climate change. Sherry Balcombe ACM Melbourne Incorporating traditional symbols into the Sacraments Using an example her grandson s Baptism, Sherry will share how the traditional symbols from Maori culture were incorporated with Aboriginal signs, symbols and rituals to produce a wonderful celebration of faith and culture. Sr Therese Mills MGL Creative prayer using art Colour in your prayer life. In this workshop we can journey together in prayer using paint and colour. This workshop will help us bring some life and colour into our prayer by being creative and letting God do the rest. Tom Powell Red Dust Healing A masterclass (running over 2 sessions) Red Dust Healing is a self-evaluating awareness program derived from an ancient Aboriginal perspective that helps individuals deal with the hurt, anger, grief, loss and negative issues in their lives. The program introduces participants to visual holistic tools that provide understanding and then empowers individuals to make better choices in their lives. Jaimi Lee Armstrong and Sarah Lackey Cultural Journey of Catholic Education in Tasmania A photo filled session of history, reconciliation, education and community connections within Dolly McGaughey Music in my life Contemporary and Traditional Come and join NATSICC Torres Strait Islander Councillor Dolly McGaughey as she shares her story of faith through contemporary and traditional Torres Strait Islander music, including her own compositions. Fr Steve Fletcher MGL and Sally FitzGerald Because of Her It is because of our strong deadly courageous women - our ancestors - who went before us that we can go forward with confidence in their footsteps! They were guided and protected by the Creator Spirit and they relied on this Spirit for everything. Another strong deadly ancestor is Mary the Mother of Jesus! Doreen Flanders Sharing the developments and achievements within the Lismore Diocese In 2015 the Lismore Diocese made a commitment to expand student and staff faith formation opportunities. The continuum ensures the retreats are inclusive and accessible to all members of the Diocese. Murri Ministry The integral role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ministries in Dioceses Exploring the developing roles of Ministries and Ministry workers as well as the importance of maintaining culturally appropriate liturgy, these iconic Queensland Ministries will provide participants with a unique and thought provoking insight into their work. Indigenous people should be the Catholic Education setting principle partners in Laudato Si in Tasmania.

Assembly Program MONDAY 1 OCTOBER 2018 TUESDAY 2 OCTOBER 2018 WEDNESDAY 3 OCTOBER 2018 THURSDAY 4 OCTOBER 2018 FRIDAY 5 OCTOBER 2018 MORNING SESSION Poetry and Walk Samantha Faulkner Wellness Session Yoga Rosary Broome MAIN SESSION 11am Registration Opens Marketplace Opens Afternoon Session, Artspace Open 1.15pm 1.30pm 2.15pm 3.15pm 3.45pm 4.30pm 5.30pm 6pm 6.15pm Opening Ceremony Welcome to Country NATSICC Welcome DR. RICHARD WALLEY Opening Mass Afternoon Tea FR FRANK BRENNAN YARNING CIRCLES Report Back Closing Prayer (WA) Dinner 8.30am 9.45am 10.30am 10.45am 11am 12.15pm 1.15pm 2.15pm Healing Liturgy (NT/WA) Housekeeping and overview LANA TURVEY COLLINS 2020 PLENARY Questions Morning Tea 2020 PLENARY WORKSHOPS Lunch 2020 PLENARY WORKSHOPS Short break 2.30pm CONCURRENT SESSIONS (1) 3.45pm Afternoon tea 4.15pm CONCURRENT SESSIONS (2) 5.30pm 6.15pm Report Back Sessions Closing Prayer (SA) DAYTRIP TO NEW NORCIA 8.30am Departing 4.30pm Returning 9am 9.30am 10.15am 10.30am 11am 12pm 1pm 2.15pm 3.15pm 3.45pm Morning Prayer (QLD) Housekeeping and overview SENATOR PAT DODSON Questions Morning Tea YOUTH TBA Lunch YARNING CIRCLES Engaging Youth in Ministry and making a commitment to our youth. Report Back Session Afternoon Tea Youth Liturgy Afternoon Prayer (ACT/NSW) 9am 9.15am 10.15am 10.45am 12pm 1pm Morning Prayer (Vic/Tas) Housekeeping and overview Bishops Q&A Session Morning Tea Listening Group presentation Youth Presentation Closing Mass and Assembly Closing Ceremony Lunch 6.30pm Dinner 5pm Dinner EVENING SESSION 7.30pm Jesus through our eyes Exploring Art and Faith 7.30pm Labyrinth Hosted by Doreen Flanders 7pm Concert and Variety Night (Alcohol Free)

Youth Assembly The NATSICC Youth Assembly runs concurrently with the main Assembly from 1-5 October 2018. Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholics aged 15-25 are invited to come along and share the unique aspects of faith, culture and spirituality. Still being finalised, the Youth program will include inspirational speakers and engaging activities that will foster self confidence, expression of faith and culture and building capacity to be leaders. There will be times where the Youth and Main Assembly will come together to learn from one another. A core aspect of culture is sharing and learning from Elders and there will be many opportunities for this to happen. NATSICC Councillor Sabrina-Ann Stevens and her team will lead the group. Sabrina Ann is the NATSICC National Youth Councillor and is also on the Council for Australian Catholic Women and is an inspirational young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leader. The program is currently being finalised but will be available at www.natsicc.org.au Strong Faith. Strong Youth. Strong Future. Day Trip Wednesday 3 October Delegates will depart from Technology Park for a daytrip to New Norcia. Founded in 1847 by Spanish Benedictine Monks, the town has had many purposes; a mission, a monastery, a provider of education and now as a place of spiritual retreat. The Monastery, where the monks live, work and pray, is at the heart of New Norcia. The monks of New Norcia live according to the guidance and rhythms of The Rule of St Benedict, which has been followed by monks since the sixth century AD. Monks who do so are referred to as Benedictines. Unlike many priests and nuns, monks do not join an order as such, but instead join an autonomous monastery where they promise to remain for the rest of their lives. The establishment of the Aboriginal mission at New Norcia had a profound effect on the lives of the local Aboriginal people, the Yued people of the Noongar nation. This coincided with much upheaval for the Noongar people who bore the brunt of the early British colony in Western Australia. The Museum and Art Gallery is often the first port of call for visitors. It has many fine displays of art works and artefacts. The Museum and Art Gallery also has all the information and brochures that relate to the town, its present and its past. It houses a gift shop, which sells items relating to New Norcia and the local area.

Registration Accommodation Adult and Youth Registration $600 pp Registration includes all meals (breakfast supplied by accommodation), access to all workshops and presentations, daytrip to New Norcia, morning and afternoon activities, Assembly satchel and materials. If you do not have access to the internet, hard copy registration forms are available by contacting Online Registration Services: Email - helen@onlineregistration.com.au Phone - (07) 5448 9382 NATSICC has negotiated several accommodation options for delegates of the Assembly. Full pricing is available in the Online Registration portal. Metro Hotel The Official Assembly Hotel Registration bookings can be completed via the Online booking portal at: www.natsicc.org.au/assembly.html Address: 61 Canning Hwy, South Perth WA 6151 Phone: (08) 9367 6122 The Metro Hotel is the closest commercial accommodation to Technology Park (4.4kms). Hosting an array of rooms from single to 4 share, the Metro offers glimpses of Perth city or the Darling Ranges. The spacious Standard Rooms are well appointed with modern conveniences such as Internet access and Foxtel, most with private balcony. NATSICC has negotiated excellent rates that include an Assembly shuttle and breakfast each day. Contact the hotel directly to receive discounted rates and shuttle services. NATSICC Rates Single/Twin/Double $175.00 per room / per night (including Assembly Shuttle and breakfast). Triple/Quad $190.00 per room / per night (including Assembly Shuttle and breakfast). Guests must enter the promo code NAT18. Guests can choose to book via the below options: Online http://www.metrohotels.com.au/hotels/metro-hotel-perth/ Direct link http://www.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/clientauthenticate.html?autouser=nat18&autopass=natsicc Assembly Venue Technology Park Function Centre 2 Brodie Hall Drive (cnr Hayman Rd) Bentley, WA 6102. TransPerth bus routes 100, 34 and 74. The Technology Park Function Centre is nestled in the lush parkland setting of Technology Park Bentley, located just 6 kilometres from Perth CBD and opposite Curtin University. First and foremost, Technology Park was chosen because of its surrounding outdoor areas. Beautiful grassed areas dotted with tress for shade will provide delegates (weather permitting) with space to yarn and share. 150 free parking bays plus overflow carpark (if required). Specific parking bays for those with disabilities. Super-fast Wireless internet and it s FREE! On site catering for delicious food and beverages. Technology Park is close to shops and medical facilities. Email perth@metrohg.com Phone 08 9367 6122 Clontarf College Address: 295 Manning Rd, Waterford WA 6152 Phone: (08) 9251 0666 Located just 2.3kms from Technology Park, Clontarf College offers basic, shared bathroom accommodation with tea and coffee facilities in a college setting. Rooms are twin share configuration. We encourage any single occupy delegates to utilise the Metro hotel to allow for delegates traveling in pairs and groups to utilise the college. A shuttle will run from the college to the venue in the morning and evenings. NATSICC Rates (applicable 1-5 October 2018 only) 4 Nights - Single $220 or Twin Share $400 (including Assembly Shuttle and breakfast). Book via the Online Portal www.natsicc.org.au/assembly.html

ONLINE Registration Registration bookings can be completed via the online booking portal at: www.natsicc.org.au/assembly.html National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council 80c Payneham Rd. Stepney SA 5069 NATIONAL ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CATHOLIC COUNCIL 08 8363 2963 assembly@natsicc.org.au 80c Payneham Road, Stepney South Australia 5069 ABN 79 045 319 587 (08) 8363 2963 assembly@natsicc.org.au ABN 79 045 319 587